Two Hampshire Constabulary police officers joined lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) colleagues from across the country in a video for the ‘It Gets Better’ campaign.
The film has been released by the Association of Chief Police Officers and The College of Policing to mark International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, today, May 17.
It features the experiences of 36 police officers and police staff from 16 forces and is available to view on YouTube.
It’s the first time a collective of LGB&T police officers and staff nationally have come together to tell their stories to provide a message of hope and encouragement to vulnerable young LGB&T people.
Inspector Julie Fry is chair of Hampshire Constabulary LGB&T Resource Group and features in the film.
She said:
“It’s very powerful to see so many openly LGB&T members of the national police service together on one occasion. The film delivers what is a very strong and consistent message that, although many people have experienced adversity with their coming out stories, you can still achieve what you want, you can be successful, there are people to assist with that journey and that it does get better.”
The film is opened by Assistant Chief Constable Steph Morgan who is the national police lead for LGB&T issues and a former Hampshire Constabulary officer.
She said:
“Growing up as a young lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans person is often a day-to-day struggle which can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and suicidal feelings. The ‘It Gets Better’ project exists to show young LGBT people the levels of happiness, potential and positivity their lives will reach if they can just make it through their teenage years. We want young LGBT people to know It Gets Better; they’re not alone and we’re here to help.”
Hampshire Constabulary has a network of Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers (LAGLOs) dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.
All police officers and staff in Hampshire Constabulary are able to support LGB&T people but LAGLOs are available if you want to speak to someone with an extra understanding.
You can find out more about their work and how to contact them here or follow them on Twitter
To view the film, CLICK HERE: http://youtu.be/LewPhMPUcJU
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